Doreen’s story

In some cases, circles of support form naturally. It can simply mean family and friends coming together to support an individual at their time of need.

Meet Doreen

Doreen was a wonderful Mum, precious Granny and much-loved friend to many. She loved to chat, would do anything for anyone, was hugely resilient and great company. She loved to spend time with her family and friends and her Catholic faith was hugely important to her.

Doreen’s friends and family always supported her well, so after her diagnosis with lung cancer in November, it was very easy for her Circle to come together to offer emotional and practical support. Each of her grandchildren had their own part to play, and friends rallied round. Her friend Anne used to be a nurse and would support Doreen if the district nurses needed to come to do an assessment. Doreen said that having someone else there really helped to make her feel comfortable.

Working together for Doreen

Over time a rota naturally developed. Friends from church would come and visit at lunchtime and have sandwiches and cakes together and a chat in the living room. Doreen’s family developed a rota for teatime, so they could support Doreen with her evening meal and spend time with her.

Doreen received very positive support from district nurses who made sure her wishes were carried out. The nurses organised all the equipment that was needed to support Doreen well with her final wishes, with her family and friends constantly around her side.

Father Barry and Father Frankie came to visit Doreen, also offering emotional support to friends and family.

Doreen’s circle really came together when there was a need for extra support, with great person centred support from professionals too.

“Her circle of support not only supported Mum and her well-being but us as a family, knowing that Mum had other people she could rely on, and offering us practical and ongoing emotional support was incredibly helpful.”